Public Land Access

Enjoy Montana Responsibly

Montana has amazing public lands. Getting to them can sometimes be tricky since many are surrounded by private property. Knowing how access works helps everyone enjoy these incredible places.

Montana's Access Challenge

  • Over 3 million acres of public land are "landlocked" by surrounding private property.
  • If you need to cross private land to reach public land, ask permission first—even if it's not posted.
  • Good relationships between landowners and recreationists keep access opportunities available for everyone.

Block Management Program

Block Management is a partnership between Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and private landowners. Landowners volunteer to allow public access—primarily for hunting—and receive compensation from the state for participating. The program opens up millions of acres that would otherwise be inaccessible.

Know Before You Go

  • Use maps and apps like onX Hunt or HuntStand to identify land ownership.
  • Unmarked land isn't necessarily public—check before you go.
  • Look into seasonal closures and special regulations.

A Little Courtesy Goes a Long Way

  • Thank landowners who provide access—they're sharing their land with you.
  • Follow property-specific rules about dates, routes, and activities.
  • Close gates behind you and stay on designated routes.
  • Pack out everything you pack in.

Resources

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks

  • Block Management Program
  • Hunt Planner interactive map for access information
  • Regional FWP offices for local access questions: (406) 444-2535

Land Ownership and Maps

Planning Tools

  • onX Maps for land ownership identification
  • Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM) from U.S. Forest Service
  • County planning offices for local easements and access routes